As the NHL trade deadline draws closer, a few intriguing names are starting to bubble to the surface - and two of them are skating in Vancouver.
Evander Kane is the more high-profile of the pair. A pending unrestricted free agent, Kane’s name is circulating in trade chatter once again.
He’s shown flashes of his old self lately, reminding teams that he can still be a physical, productive winger when he’s on. But despite the uptick in his play, the trade market for Kane has been described as “lukewarm” - a sign that while he’s drawing some interest, there’s no bidding war just yet.
For the Canucks, the goal is clear: flip Kane for a draft pick before the deadline. It’s a classic rental scenario - a veteran player with postseason experience who could add grit and scoring punch for a contender looking to bulk up for a playoff run.
For Kane, the stakes are just as high. If he wants to secure a more favorable contract this offseason, he’ll need to keep trending upward and show he can still be a difference-maker down the stretch.
Teddy Blueger is another name to keep an eye on. He’s only recently returned to action after missing almost the entire season, but depth is always in demand at this time of year.
Blueger brings a smart, responsible two-way game - the kind of skill set that playoff teams covet for their bottom six. The big question for any potential suitor is health.
If he can prove he’s fully recovered and back in game shape, there’s a good chance a team in need of center depth will come calling.
Meanwhile, out in Seattle, the Kraken are making waves of their own - and they’re not being subtle about it.
General manager Jason Botterill is reportedly open to moving Shane Wright, the highly touted young center who was once seen as a franchise cornerstone. Let’s be clear: this isn’t a fire sale.
The Kraken haven’t given up on Wright. But they are willing to listen - and that’s significant.
Seattle has been on the hunt for scoring help since the offseason. Specifically, they’re eyeing a top-six winger, ideally someone who can step into a first-line role.
They were linked to Jordan Kyrou around the draft, but nothing materialized. Now, the search continues - and Wright is the chip they’re willing to put on the table.
It’s a bold move, but one that reflects where the Kraken are as a franchise. They’re not content to wait.
They’ve expected more from Wright’s development curve, and while he’s shown flashes, he’s also been vocal about wanting more ice time. There’s still plenty of talent there - not just in Seattle’s eyes, but around the league.
But the Kraken are in win-now mode, and if Wright can help them land a proven top-line winger, they’re ready to make that move.
As the deadline approaches, these are the kinds of storylines that define the stretch run. Veterans like Kane and Blueger trying to carve out their next chapter.
A young talent like Wright potentially on the move in a blockbuster-type swing. The market is heating up - and the next few weeks could get very interesting.